A bipartisan group of senators in Guam is advocating for patient caregivers and medical escorts to use government airline miles when accompanying patients requiring off-island medical treatment. Currently, the law permits the use of GovGuam airline miles only for eligible indigent patients and students. If passed, Bill 261-38 would expand this authorization to include caregivers, support persons, or medical escorts.
The bill was introduced on March 18, 2024, by Vice Speaker Tony Ada along with Senators Vincent Borja, Will Parkinson, Frank Blas Jr., Sabina Perez, Joe San Agustin, Jesse Lujan, and Shelly Calvo. Under this proposed legislation, authorized caregivers or escorts would be responsible for a variety of supportive tasks. These include providing general care, assisting with daily needs such as medication and transportation, offering emotional support, and helping patients communicate effectively during medical appointments.
The existing GovGuam airline mileage program requires government travelers to transfer their travel rewards to benefit medically indigent patients. This program was established in 1998 under Governor Carl Gutierrez and initially cost the Department of Public Health and Social Services approximately $200,000 each year for sending medically indigent patients and their escorts off-island.
Since its inception, the law has undergone three amendments. Notably, a change in 2013 allowed the miles to be used for additional off-island student activities, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for broader access to travel resources for individuals requiring support.
As this proposal moves forward, it highlights the ongoing efforts by Guam’s legislators to improve healthcare access and support for patients and their caregivers. If passed, the bill could significantly ease the burden on families navigating the complexities of medical care outside the island.
The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration among lawmakers to address the needs of the community, particularly in the realm of healthcare. As the legislative process continues, the outcome of Bill 261-38 could pave the way for a more comprehensive approach to patient support in Guam.
